Americans Have a Misunderstanding of Processed Foods, Says Study

A JAMA Network study was published on July 8, 2025 entitled "Consumer Identification of Processed Foods and Their Health Effects." Researchers from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine conducted a survey of 2,174 participants aged 18 to 92 years. The nationally representative survey evaluated how well Americans understand the term “processed food," and which processed foods are associated with various health conditions. The survey was conducted online from December 13 through 15, 2024.

Overall, there wasn't a processed food that was identified by the majority of respondents. When asked to identify processed foods, 28% of the respondents named meat products, 14% named shelf-stable foods like canned foods or foods in shiny wrappers, and 13% called out foods with artificial additives. 

The results of the study show a clear misunderstanding surrounding processed foods and their impact. Of all the respondents, 39% said they believed all processed foods are unhealthy, 40% did not believe all processed foods are unhealthy, and the rest said they were unsure.

There's no one-size-fits-all approach to processed foods and health, as some processed foods (i.e. plant-based ultra-processed foods) can be beneficial, while others can be harmful.

When asked about which foods are good or bad for diabetes, the respondents were all over the map. Slightly more than half (51%) of survey participants said sugar was a culprit, 19% said desserts, and 15% referenced carbs in general. Only 1% of respondents mentioned meat products.

Public confusion around food processing may lead to poor dietary choices. Researchers call for clearer, evidence-based communication to help consumers differentiate between minimally, moderately, and ultra-processed foods and the types of processed foods that are harmful. The term "processed foods" is too vague, and the public could benefit from more descriptive and detailed food classifications that describe the health benefits and negative consequences of foods.